[Photocoagulation in sex-linked heredofamilial retinoschisis]

In a series of 120 eyes of 60 patients in 24 affected families, 28 eyes were treated by photocoagulation in order to stabilize the extension of bullous peripheral retinoschisis to the posterior pole or to prevent retinal detachment. 3 eyes affected by severe retinal detachment in the months following this treatment. After analysis of spontaneous evolution of the untreated eyes and review of literature, the authors conclude that preventive photocoagulation in bullous retinoschisis is not advised, because of spontaneous regression with age and the possibility of complications. Prophylaxis treatment of retinal detachment by encircling the posterior pole by photo-coagulations is discussed.